Keep the Penuela family in Australia

Cesar Penuela and his family are being forced to leave Australia next week because his employer didn't supply any paperwork for his Australian visa despite repeated requests. The family has lived in Australia since 2009 and moved to Tasmania in 2017 after his employer offered to sponsor him. They must fly to Colombia on November 17 and leave their life, community, schools and friends behind.

All money raised will pay for legal support to fight to keep the family in Australia. It will also cover travel costs and support a new visa application.

The family are settled in Launceston and their love of soccer has built strong links and friendships. Cesar has played soccer at Northern Rangers and coached junior teams. His eldest daughter Maria plays for Northern Rangers as well as the NTJSA Under 14 Girls Rep team. She has dreams of playing at a high level and following in the footsteps of her idol Sam Kerr.

Cesar has been offered a new job and sponsorship in Launceston but was told by the immigration department they have to leave the country to apply for a new visa. They had to break the lease on their rental and pay for expensive flights.